The Best Jobs for People Over 50: Canadian Edition

New analysis from Statistics Canada shows that retirement is changing and that more than half of workers aged 55 and older return to the workforce. Of Canadians that actually exited a long term job between the age of 55 and 59, 60% of them were re-employed within the next 10 years, while those age 60-64 had 42% re-employment in the same year. In this article we will examine exactly what these jobs for people over 50 are.

According to a TD Economics report for 2012 Canadians 60 years and over have accounted for about one third of all net job gains since July 2009. Older Canadians are becoming an increasingly important part of the labour market. Companies, such as Merck Frosst Canada, AltaGas Limited, and Bethany Care Society are just some examples of Canadian companies that recognize the benefits of their experience and actively recruit older workers. (http://www.seniors.gov.on.ca/en/resources/fpt/AFW%20Booklet_EN.pd)

There are many reasons that older Canadians return to and stay in the workforce. HRSD Canada estimates that approximately one third of all work arrangements are now “non-standard” which includes part-time and temporary work, and self-employment. These types of work arrangements are perfectly suited to those older workers as they move towards their retirement years. This type of employment is often referred to as bridge employment.

With all this being said what kinds of jobs are being filled?And what are the best jobs for people over 50? Workhoppers.com recently reviewed the statistics and trends report published by HRSDC (COPS) Job openings 2011-2020, looking for openings in Canada’s fastest growing industries that do not require years of education. Many of these are flexible positions and available on a part time or temporary basis.

Here are 6 solid leads:

In the administrative and Regulatory Occupations With the highest number of job openings estimated at 204,093, jobs in this group that do not require too much training: Executive assistants, property administrators, purchasing agents, court officers (successful completion of physical fitness test required), conference and event planners. You do not need a special degree to be hired for these jobs but it helps if you are a great multitasker.

Motor Vehicle and transit drivers: (projected job openings 177,017) Maybe you do not know how to drive a 6 wheeler. But driving a taxi, becoming a chauffeur, or doing deliveries are possible options.

This category includes early childhood educators and assistants, paralegal and related occupations, other instructors. Working with children requires a lot of patience and energy but can be very rewarding. Working in a law office is for those who are detail oriented. Both options require on the job training and special short term courses. Perhaps you could consider being an instructor, teaching others what you have learned throughout your career.

Position as a blood donor clinic assistant, optometrist assistant, or therapist assistant may be right for you. You do not necessarily need formal training but requirements for this type of work include on the job training, health care courses or short term college programs.

Finance & insurance clerks: (Projected job openings 138,984):

This field includes bank clerk or real estate clerk. You need to be fastidious as you will be verifying, processing and compiling information/ paperwork. Requirements may include a business diploma, on the job training and short term courses.